Orach, 'Scarlet Emperor'

Germination

Sow direct. Sow into a well prepared seedbed. Sow thinly 12mm deep in a trench, cover with soil and water. Cover with netting to prevent bird attack. Germination takes 7-10 days. For babyleaf successional sow every 2-3 weeks for continuous supply. Babyleaf can be grown on a kitchen windowsill year round. For mature plants sow Apr-Sep directly or Oct-Dec under glass with 30cm spacing.

Growing

Prefers an ordinary moisture retentive soil with plenty of well rotted organic matter added, in full or partial sun. Keep area free of weeds and water when dry. Requires little attention.

Cultivation

Harvest by cutting whole plant as a young seedling or picking individual leaves as the plant matures. Cut and come again variety. Best salad quality comes from the first 45cm of growth, older leaves can be cooked. Will self-seed freely.